Sidewise Technologies. National Security and Power Implications

Abstract

Sidewise technologies are mature technologies applied to new problem areas. For mature one should think of boring, old fashioned, and attracting little notice from first rate scientists and engineers. They are on the frontier of two generations ago.

Advanced technologies such as biotechnology, IT, and nanotechnology capture most of the attention of corporate and government technology officers. However, sidewise technologies are likely to be the important hidden drivers of competition in the coming decade. Adaptation of sidewise technologies by China, India, Iran, and others will pose an enormous challenge in business and military competition. Frameworks for recognizing and understanding sidewise technology competition are offered. The capacity to systems engineer combinations of sidewise technologies, with examples, are analyzed.